Surat is famous for its superior flat green bean (Surat ni papdi). Hence many Famous Surti Dishes revolves around papdi, whether it be Undhiyu, Lilva or Val ni dal made from its dry form. Dishes made from papdi holds the status of being served on a special occasions. Papdi and sorghum flour is widely used in households of Surat. With so many greens, lentils and whole grain flour, it makes up a healthy dish. The dumplins are made from clenched fist called muthi in gujarati, hence getting the name muthia.

Dal with rice is the staple of India. Lentils act as a ready source of protein for majority of Indians who are vegetarians. Dal Fry and Jeera Rice is a restaurant style of ‘Dal and rice’ made at every home. However this recipe is as simple as one made at home with minimalistic Ingredients. Instead of pressure cooker, we use clay pot for cooking dal in a traditional way. We made it with tuvar dal and chana dal. You can also make it with only tuvar dal or with various combination of lentils like masoor dal, moong dal, dhuli urad dal, toor or channa dal.

It is not always necessary to have specific ingredients to make any particular dish. We can always make use of the local produce to reinvent that dish and give similar flavours. So here is the dish made totally with easy to find ingredients in Indian Kitchen. This recipe is made from fresh tomatoes rather than tinned giving it a vibrant taste, not to ignore its availability in Indian Kitchen. I have added Carom Seeds and mint as a stand out ingredient. Peas add protein value to it. Now to the dish. Continue reading